nd forewarned them. Finding the rebels
prepared with a warm welcome the British retraced their steps. There
were small skirmishes outside the lines, and once the impetuous
Lafayette advanced, hoping to surprise the enemy, but nothing came of
this. Baron Steuben was training the Continentals, as many of them were
raw recruits, but, used to hunting as they were, most of the young men
had a quick eye and correct aim.

But stories crept in concerning their hardships and sufferings. Every
avenue was closely watched that no supplies should be sent directly from
the city, but more than once keen wit evaded them. There were passes for
the farmers to come in on market days, and many were glad even to supply
their enemies for British gold. James Henry thought this no sin, and was
given a pass for his son and nephew. Penn had imbibed many of his
uncle's beliefs, and took home rather rose-colored accounts of the
prosperity of the city. He kept, too, a watchful eye over Andrew, who
was more than half suspected of being quite as willing to deal with the
rebels, and Madam Wetherill's was considered a rather tempting and
unsafe place for sober-going Friends.

But one day he came alone, and made his way to Arch Street, leaving his
empty wagon at a nearby tavern that he knew he could trust.

"It is thy cousin," whispered Madam Wetherill, who had some callers.
"Take him upstairs in Patty's sewing room."

Primrose ran out with delight in her eyes, but she had grown wise, and,
instead of a cry of joy, placed her finger archly on her lips and
motioned him through the hall.

"I saw a glimpse of a red coat," he said in a low tone. "I have no
desire to run into a hornets' nest. Oh, Primrose, thou hast grown taller
since the day thou wert at the farm. Thou wilt soon be a young lady. And
the sweetness of childhood will be ended."

"Is girlhood sharp, then, and--and sour?"

Her eyes danced with a merry, mischievous light.

"Nay, sweeter than ever; but it's sweetness is more sacred. And
presently comes the time of lovers."

"I shall not have any lovers. They say pert things and talk about pretty
faces, or else are silly like Anabella's lover, and forever kissing
one's hand. And what think you Lieutenant Vane did when we were going to
ride a few days since? There was pretty Mistress Wharton here, and my
brother is much taken with her, though she is such a rebel. But I was
not allowed to mount the stepping stone, and his hand was placed und